Which items should be disinfected in a childcare setting?

• A. Toys
• B. Computers
• C. Plants
• D. Curtains

Answer: (A)

Disinfection in a childcare setting focuses on items that are shared and frequently handled or mouthed, since these are the surfaces most likely to spread germs between children. Toys fit this need perfectly: kids often put toys in their mouths, share them with others, and they can become contaminated with saliva, food, or dirt. Regularly disinfecting toys between uses—especially after a child is ill or after messy play—greatly reduces the spread of illness.

Computers are electronics that require special cleaning to avoid damage, so they aren’t treated as routinely disinfected items in the same way as toys. Curtains can be washed or laundered, but they aren’t typically disinfected between uses. Plants aren’t disinfected either; they’re living items that need care rather than chemical disinfection.